HINdfoot Fusion surgery
What is Hindfoot fusion surgery and why is it required some of the time?
Hindfoot fusion surgery is used to treat severe arthritis, deformity or instability affecting the back of the foot, most commonly involving the subtalar, talonavicular and/or calcaneocuboid joints. These conditions can cause persistent pain, swelling and difficulty walking, particularly on uneven ground. Fusion stabilises the affected joints, removes painful movement and helps restore a more comfortable and stable foot.
What does the operation involve?
Hindfoot fusion may involve one or more joints depending on your condition. Common procedures include:
- Subtalar fusion
- Double fusion (two joints)
- Triple fusion (subtalar, talonavicular and calcaneocuboid joints)
- TTC Fusion (Subtalar and ankle joint)
The operation typically involves:
- A short inpatient stay under general or regional anaesthetic
- Removal of damaged cartilage from the affected joints
- Correction of foot alignment
- Fixation with metalwork (screws, staple, nails or plates) to hold the bones while they fuse
- Gradual bone healing over several months to form a solid, pain-free unit
Your surgeon will discuss which joints need fusion and why.
Examples
Post Surgical Recovery
Immediate post operative period (0-2 weeks)
- Your foot will be placed in a cast or rigid boot.
- Non-weight-bearing with crutches is common initially.
- Elevation is important to reduce swelling.
- Stitches removed around 10–14 days.
2-6 weeks after surgery
- Continued immobilisation in a cast or boot.
- Gentle movement of non-fused joints may begin.
6-12 weeks after surgery
- X-rays are taken to assess fusion progress.
- Gradual progression to partial weight-bearing in a boot if healing allows.
- Physiotherapy may start to maintain strength and improve gait.
Longer term (3-6 months and beyond)
- Progression to full weight-bearing as fusion consolidates.
- Transition into supportive footwear.
- Ongoing improvement in comfort and walking ability.
- Swelling gradually reduces.
- Fusion continues to strengthen.
- Return to low-impact activities such as walking, cycling or golf.
Recovery time depends on the number of joints fused and your individual healing response.
Outcomes
Before Surgery
- Persistent hindfoot pain
- Difficulty walking on uneven ground
- Swelling and instability
- Reduced activity and confidence
After Surgery
- Significant reduction in pain
- Improved stability and alignment
- More comfortable walking
- Improved confidence in daily activities
- Long-lasting results once fusion is complete
Long term success
- Most patients achieve solid fusion and durable pain relief.
- Some loss of hindfoot motion is expected but usually well tolerated.
- Supportive footwear helps protect adjacent joints long-term.
Contact Us
Contact to arrange an appointment
Prof Mason has clinics at Spire Liverpool (weekly) and in Douglas, Isle of Man (every 3 months)
Cost -
Initial consultation - £250
Follow-up - £150
Prof Lyndon Mason
Spire Liverpool Hospital, 57 Greenbank Rd, Liverpool L18 1HQ, UK
Patient Liaison - Clare van de Waal Telephone - 07717580737 E-mail - CVDWclerical@outlook.com Website - <<https://liverpoolfootandankle.com/<<
Copyright © 2026 Prof Lyndon Mason - All Rights Reserved.